The Cradle of the Nanzhao Kingdom: Ancient Daoist Temples, Yi Murals, and Sacred Forests at Weibaoshan

The Sacred Mountain of Nanzhao

Located about 10 kilometers southeast of Weishan Yi and Hui Autonomous County in the Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Weibaoshan (Weibao Mountain) is a site of immense historical and spiritual gravity. It is celebrated as the birthplace of the powerful Nanzhao Kingdom (738–902 AD) and is revered as the "No. 1 Daoist Mountain in Yunnan." With a peak altitude of 2,509 meters and a core scenic area covering nearly 20 square kilometers, the mountain is a National Forest Park and a Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit. Unlike the bustling tourist paths of Dali Ancient City, Weibaoshan offers a serene retreat where towering cypress trees shelter ancient architectural wonders, creating a "living fossil" of Nanzhao culture and a sanctuary for Daoist philosophy,.

A Legend of Destiny

1.The spiritual significance of: Weibaoshan is rooted in a legend involving Xinuluo, the founder of the Nanzhao Kingdom. It is said that while Xinuluo was farming on this mountain, he was enlightened by Tai Shang Lao Jun (The Grand Supreme Elderly Lord of Daoism), eventually leading to the unification of the six tribes and the establishment of the Nanzhao regime. To honor this history, the Nanzhao Tuku Temple (Earth Lord Temple) was built on the mountain, enshrining Xinuluo as the "Earth Lord." This site serves as the ancestral shrine for the Yi people of the region. Every year, from the 1st to the 15th of the second lunar month, a grand temple fair is held here, where ethnic Yi tribes gather to worship their ancestors, sing, and dance, keeping the ancient traditions alive.

A Museum of Daoist Architecture

Weibaoshan is one of the most important centers of Daoism in Southwest China. The mountain is dotted with over 20 ancient Daoist temples, including the Wenchan Palace, Qingxia Temple, Yuhuang Pavilion, and Changchun Cave. These structures, mostly built during the Ming and Qing dynasties, are nestled amidst dense forests, designed to harmonize with the natural terrain. The architecture uniquely blends the styles of Central Plains Daoism (specifically from Hubei and Sichuan) with the local Nanzhao and Yi ethnic architectural aesthetics. The Qingxia Temple is the largest and oldest existing temple on the mountain, exuding a sense of solemnity and history,.

The Murals of Wenchan Palace

2.One of the cultural treasures of: Weibaoshan is found within the Wenchan Palace. The temple houses a dragon pool that never runs dry, but its most famous feature is the exquisite mural painting known as the "Tange Diagram" (Dancing and Singing Chart). Painted during the Qing dynasty, this mural vividly depicts Yi ethnic youths playing flutes and dancing, offering a rare and valuable visual record of the clothing, customs, and artistic life of the Yi people centuries ago. It is considered a masterpiece of ethnic art and a testament to the vibrant folk culture of the region.

Changchun Cave and Ancient Music

3.The Changchun: Cave (Eternal Spring Cave) is another architectural gem, located on the western side of the mountain. It serves as a secluded retreat for Daoist cultivation. The layout of the building is intricate, designed according to the Eight Trigrams (Bagua), and features elaborate wood carvings and stone crafting. Inside, visitors can find distinct Daoist murals from the Qing dynasty. Adding to the mountain's mystique is the "Weibaoshan Daoist Music," a tradition known as the "living fossil of Nanzhao ancient music." Listening to these ancient melodies played on traditional instruments within the quiet halls of the temples transports visitors back to the era of the Nanzhao Kingdom,.